SPARK

I’m always fascinated by how one simple notion can spark an idea..and how that one idea has limitless potential in taking the world by storm.

How a notion moves through the stages – from conception through execution and then to fruition – and is only limited by our imaginations. Now before you question why I’m getting philosophical on you as it approaches midnight here on the West Coast, let me explain.

I was having coffee this morning with a close friend and he took my by surprise. Actually, a few friends have lately. They’ve told me that my passion for Label Junkie has inspired them to pursue projects/careers/interests that they’ve wanted to for some time but did not because of [insert one of many reason for self doubt here].

Now what you’re about to hear may surprise you. Are you ready? A large part of this blog getting off the ground can be attributed to one Mindy Kaling. About a year ago she was speaking at an event I attended at The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences or as most of you know it The Academy (you know, the big dogs behind The Oscars).

Amongst many witty, brilliant stories was a tale about growing up. Her obstetrician mother, an equally brilliant woman by Mindy’s account, used to utter a phrase to Mindy when young Ms. Kaling would doubt herself. Whether it was the science fair or the school play, whenever Mindy needed a little reassurance, he mother would simply say “why not you.” And it became Mindy’s words to live by. Simple, to the point..yet so profound.

Now what it was that day that made Mindy’s insightful words resonate so deeply I’ll never know. Maybe I really just needed one final push to get out of the gate. Or maybe it was the glass of champagne on a nearly empty stomach that relaxed me enough to really listen to the words being spoken. Whatever it was, the now seemingly immortal words have stuck with me. And affected many thoughts/scenarios that have since transpired.

Putting her obvious genius aside, I did not expect Mindy’s mantra to become mine as well. But whenever doubt rears its sneaky little head, ‘why not me’ immediately pops into my head. For so many endeavors, the biggest piece of the puzzle often seems to be the courage to see it through. It’s not easy – and as cliché as it is, nothing worth having ever is – but I promise you that the payoff is tenfold. Every day I feel privileged for being allowed to do what I love.

So when you’re back in the back-and-forth, should I, shouldn’t I’ phase, channel Mindy and think “why not me.” Why not?

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So profound…so true. Thank you for the encouraging words!! Why not me?!?!

Amanda Johnson

First off, this is one of my favorite outfits from your blog – so I decided to read. I am going to borrow this phrase now – For bar studies and for what comes after. I just e-mailed you too! xoxo. Proud of you.